Concerns include nearby residents’ fears about noise from cheering crowds at a planned 499-seat spectator pitch.

Worries have also been lodged about light pollution from floodlights and the impact of extra traffic on nearby rural roads.

There are also concerns over vehicle movement at the busy junction of Park Hill Lane and the A46.

Despite these concerns, however, planning officers at the council have reviewed the club’s proposals and say they are acceptable.

They have advised councillors on the planning committee to approve the scheme.

What does the council say?

A Charnwood Borough Council planning report says: “It is acknowledged that there is significant local opposition to the scheme, and this must be taken into account appropriately when reaching a decision on the application.

“It should be noted that the applicant has developed the final proposal by considering those concerns and responding to them wherever possible.

“However, opposition to the proposal in principle should be considered in light of the fact it complies with development plan policies and replaces an existing leisure facility with a new, albeit larger, leisure facility."